Brief aan Philip Zilcken 1868 - 1928

This is a letter, handwritten by Jan Toorop to Philip Zilcken. While undated, this piece provides an intimate glimpse into the social circles of artists at the time. Letters such as these reveal the everyday negotiations of life, layered with the nuances of friendship and professional relationships. We see the artist's personality through his handwriting and word choice. He suggests alternative arrangements for a meeting and there is a sense of flexibility, as he says, "I can very badly change, otherwise I would certainly do it." Toorop's words evoke a sense of intimacy and a connection to a specific moment in time, inviting us to reflect on the way personal interactions shape the art world. By looking at this letter, we consider how these dialogues play a role in the creation and reception of art.